Fernandes joins Kings from Botafogo

Midfielder Jonathan da Silveira Fernandes Reis, better known as Fernandes, joined Bangladesh Premier League side Bashundhara Kings from Brazilian top-tier outfit Botafogo.

Fernandes is now the third foreign player in the Kings’ squad for the upcoming season, alongside Argentine striker Hernan Barcos and Brazilian winger Robson Azevedo da Silva Robinho.

The 25-year old Fernandes played 76 matches in five years for Botafogo, scoring 11 goals. 

After agreeing terms with the Kings, reportedly more than $15,000 per month, Fernandes said, “Hello Bangladesh, I am Fernandes. Recently I signed for the Kings. Now I wait to put on this jersey. I am sure our journey will be good. See you soon.”

Kings president Imrul Hasan informed that Fernandes will be available for the AFC Cup and the domestic league, and that a fourth foreign signing will be made by the BPL and Federation Cup champion in the coming days..

AFC Cup Group E table-topper Bashundhara will resume their debut campaign against Maziya Sports and Recreation Club of Maldives away in Male on October 23 in their second group phase match.

Prior to the halt of sporting activities due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Kings had made their first ever AFC Cup appearance, thrashing TC Sports of Maldives 5-1 at Bangabandhu National Stadium in March.

The Kings and three other Group E teams – Maziya, TC Sports and Chennai City of India – will play out their remaining Group E games at neutral venue Male from October 23 to November 4 owing to the novel coronavirus outbreak.

Only the Group E champion will progress to the inter-zone playoff semi-finals.